Beginning in the early 1990s, the rides began their second Golden Age (the first was during the Jazz-Age 1920s when the wooden lattices dotted the U.S. landscape) and their numbers and variety show no signs of letting up.
Why do we love roller coasters? Who knows? But, it seems, we can't get enough of them. If you can't get enough of them, then check out my picks for the very best thrill machines out there.
TOP 10 WOOD COASTERS IN NORTH AMERICA
Number 10: CycloneCyclone Coaster Review
Coney Island in Brooklyn, NY
Sure, there may be "better" coasters. To say it's not the smoothest ride is an understatement. (One fan I know likened the first drop to riding down the rungs of an 85-foot ladder.) But this classic is one of the originals and holds a special place in the hearts of fans. The Cyclone is nostalgic, yet surprisingly vital, after all these years.
- Coney Island Photo Gallery
- Wonder Wheel at Coney Island Ride Review
- Spook-A-Rama at Coney Island Ride Review
The Top 10 Wood Coasters List continues with numbers 1 to 9.
TOP 10 STEEL COASTERS IN NORTH AMERICA
Number 10: Ride of SteelRide of Steel Coaster Review
Darien Lake in Darien Center, NY (between Buffalo and Rochester)
(Note that when Six Flags operated the park, this ride was known as Superman: Ride of Steel. It's similar, but not identical to Bizarro--previously also known as Superman: Ride of Steel--at Six Flags New England as well as Superman: Ride of Steel at Six Flags America.)
Known as a "hypercoaster" for breaking the 200-foot height level, Ride of Steel delivers the goods in speed, acceleration, and airtime.
The Top 10 Steel Coasters List continues with numbers 1 to 9.
